Devshayani Ekadashi — also called Ashadhi Ekadashi or Padma Ekadashi — is among the most important Ekadashis of the year. In 2026 it falls on Saturday, July 25. On this day Lord Vishnu is believed to enter Yoga Nidra (cosmic sleep), and the sacred four-month period of Chaturmas begins.

Devshayani Ekadashi 2026 Date and Tithi

Devshayani Ekadashi is observed on the Ekadashi (11th lunar day) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the month of Ashadha. In 2026 this falls on Saturday, July 25. It comes just after Jagannath Rath Yatra and shortly before the holy month of Shravan.

Why Lord Vishnu "Sleeps": The Meaning

According to tradition, Lord Vishnu reclines on Sheshnaga in the cosmic ocean and enters a period of yogic rest for four months, awakening on Prabodhini (Devutthana) Ekadashi in the month of Kartik. This period is known as Chaturmas. It is a time when major auspicious ceremonies such as weddings and housewarmings are traditionally paused, and devotional discipline is increased.

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Chaturmas: The Four Holy Months

Chaturmas spans roughly four lunar months — Shravan, Bhadrapada, Ashwin and Kartik. Devotees use this time for extra prayer, fasting, charity, study of scripture and self-discipline. Many take a vow (niyama) to give up a particular food or habit for the duration.

Devshayani Ekadashi Vrat and Rituals

  • Wake early, bathe, and take a sankalpa (vow) to observe the Ekadashi fast.
  • Worship Lord Vishnu with tulsi leaves, flowers, fruit, incense and a lamp.
  • Chant Vishnu mantras or the Vishnu Sahasranamam, and read or listen to the Ekadashi katha.
  • Observe the fast according to your capacity — many keep a waterless (nirjala) or fruit-only fast and avoid grains and beans.
  • Break the fast (paran) on Dwadashi, the next day, within the prescribed time.

What to Do and Avoid

  • Do: increase japa, charity, and sattvic living; offer tulsi to Vishnu.
  • Avoid: rice and grains on the Ekadashi (a common observance), and starting major new auspicious ceremonies during Chaturmas.
  • Always follow your family tradition and regional panchang for exact timings.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Devshayani Ekadashi in 2026?

Saturday, July 25, 2026, on Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi.

What begins on Devshayani Ekadashi?

Chaturmas — the sacred four-month period during which Lord Vishnu is said to rest, ending on Prabodhini Ekadashi in Kartik.

Why avoid rice on Ekadashi?

By tradition, grains (especially rice) are avoided on Ekadashi as part of the fast; devotees take fruit, milk or fasting foods instead.

Explore more Hindu festivals, including Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026, Guru Purnima 2026 and the holy month of Shravan 2026.

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